Savory Minced Meat Cheese Roll: A Culinary Comfort Classic

by

The Story Behind the Roll

Every great recipe has a story, and this Savory Minced Meat Cheese Roll is no exception. Born from the comfort of home kitchens, this dish represents the perfect fusion of hearty meat, melted cheese, and flaky pastry. It’s a recipe that bridges traditional cooking methods with modern convenience, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that’s equally perfect for family dinners or impressive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Meat and Vegetable Ingredients

  • Ground Beef: 400 grams (14.1 oz / 0.88 lbs)
  • Red Pepper: 1 large (approximately 150-200 grams / 5.3-7 oz)
  • Onion: 1 medium (approximately 100-150 grams / 3.5-5.3 oz)

Seasoning and Binding Ingredients

  • Egg: 1 large
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black Pepper: To taste
  • Ground Cumin: To taste
  • Ketchup: 2-3 tablespoons (30-45 ml)

Cheese and Pastry

  • Cheese Slices: 4 pieces
  • Puff Pastry: 1 roll
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 150-200 grams (5.3-7 oz), grated
  • Egg Yolk: 1 (for brushing)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Workspace
    • Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F)
    • Gather all ingredients and cooking tools
    • Wash and dice the red pepper
    • Peel and finely chop the onion
  2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
    • Place ground beef in a large mixing bowl
    • Add salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and ketchup
    • Crack the whole egg into the mixture
    • Add diced red pepper and chopped onion
    • Knead the ingredients thoroughly until well combined
  3. Assemble the Roll
    • Carefully unroll the puff pastry on a clean work surface
    • Spread the meat mixture evenly, leaving a small border around the edges
    • Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture
    • Beat the additional egg in a small bowl
  4. Rolling and Preparing for Baking
    • Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg
    • Carefully roll the pastry into a log shape
    • Press the seam down and fold the edges to seal
    • Place the roll on a baking sheet, seam-side down
    • Use a fork to prick the dough in several places
    • Brush the entire surface with egg yolk
  5. Baking the Roll
    • Bake at 220°C (428°F) for 10 minutes
    • Reduce temperature to 180°C (356°F)
    • Continue baking for an additional 25 minutes
    • The roll should be golden brown and crispy

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (2-3 slices):

  • Calories: 350-400
  • Protein: 20-25g
  • Carbohydrates: 15-20g
  • Fat: 25-30g
  • Sodium: Varies (dependent on added salt)

Cooking Metrics:

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Meat Mixture Perfection: Ensure you knead the meat mixture thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly
  • Pastry Handling: Keep puff pastry cold until ready to use for maximum flakiness
  • Even Cooking: Prick the pastry to prevent air bubbles and ensure uniform baking
  • Egg Wash Technique: A thin, even egg wash creates a beautiful golden-brown crust

Delicious Variations and Substitutions

  1. Meat Alternatives
    • Replace beef with ground turkey for a leaner option
    • Use a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version
  2. Cheese Variations
    • Swap mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper flavor
    • Use a blend of cheeses like gouda and parmesan
    • For a lighter option, use low-fat cheese varieties
  3. Spice It Up
    • Add chili flakes or paprika for extra heat
    • Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
    • Use different spice blends like Italian or Mediterranean seasoning

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I prepare this roll in advance? A: Yes! You can assemble the roll and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q2: How do I know when the roll is fully cooked? A: The pastry should be golden brown, and the internal temperature of the meat should reach 160°F (71°C).

Q3: Can I freeze this meat cheese roll? A: Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Q4: What can I serve with this roll? A: It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light cucumber yogurt sauce.

Q5: Is there a gluten-free version? A: Use gluten-free puff pastry and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover roll in an airtight container for 3-4 days
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness
  • Freezing: Can be frozen whole or in individual slices for up to 3 months
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the meat mixture and pastry roll up to 24 hours in advance

Enjoy your delicious Savory Minced Meat Cheese Roll!